The United States Air Force has selected GE Aerospace and Kratos Defense & Security Solutions for a $12.4 million contract to create an advanced expendable propulsion system for small Collaborative Combat Aircraft.
During the first stage of the program, the companies will complete the preliminary design review of the GEK1500 engine, balancing operational performance requirements with strict cost controls to support scalable and affordable production.
Rated at 1,500 pounds (680 kilograms) of thrust, the GEK1500 is designed for use in CCA drones and missile applications. The engine builds upon the GEK800 cruise missile powerplant, which is in the final stages of technical development.
Should the optional portion of the contract proceed, the partnership will further mitigate technical risks and assess the GEK1500’s performance in flight-representative environments.
Insights gained from the GEK800 effort are expected to streamline development, cut costs, and improve efficiency. Recent altitude trials of the GEK800 validated technologies that promise enhanced range, stronger thrust performance, reduced lifecycle costs, and greater electrical power generation for next-generation systems.
